Lewiston Idaho
Aerial view of Hells Canyon
Stargazing at Nez Perce National Historical Park
Guided jet boat tour through Hells Canyon
A Nez Perce cultural tour showcasing the tribe's connection to the Appaloosa horse
Camping along the Snake River in Hells Canyon
Bighorn sheep, one example of iconic wildlife living in the the Lewis Clark Valley
Whitewater rafting on the Snake River
The Snake River, separating Lewiston from Clarkston, Washington
Assortment of wines made in the Lewis-Clark Valley American Viticultural Area
Creative meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients at Mystic Café
- Major Airports:
- Lewiston (LWS)
- Spokane (GEG)
- States:
- Idaho
Outdoor adventure combines with history, culture and award-winning wine
River Guides and Outdoor Exploration
Explore the rugged beauty of Hells Canyon during a jet boat or rafting tour. Listen to the guides tell the history of the sternwheelers that transported miners in the canyon. They will point out ancient Indigenous American villages, wildlife and 4,500-year-old petroglyphs carved into rock. During a break, play in the water or relax on white-sand beaches. The Snake and Clearwater rivers attract paddleboarders and kayakers, recreational boaters and fishermen looking for steelhead. There’s always another bend in the river to explore. Paved trails along the river are perfect for walking, jogging and biking.
History Lessons at Local Landmarks
The Nimiipuu, also known as the Nez Perce Tribe, have lived in this area since ancient times. Learn about their heritage and traditions at the Nez Perce National Historical Park and through tours offered by tribal members. The Nimiipuu were integral in helping the Lewis and Clark Expedition travel through this region in the early 1800s. Walk in their steps on the Lewis and Clark National Historical Trail that extends beyond the eastern and western border of Idaho. Get a history lesson at the Lewis and Clark Discovery Center at Hells Gate State Park. Further your understanding of the area’s history with a trip to the comprehensive Nez Perce County Historical Society & Museum. Visit the Jack O’Connor Center to hear tales of the famous hunter and see taxidermy from his hunting excursions in North America, Asia and Africa. Pick up a map and take a self-guided walking tour of historic downtown Lewiston and its tree-lined Main Street with eclectic shops, shopping and dining.
Great Wine Tours Minus the Crowds
When you’re ready for some refreshments, visit local wineries and breweries. Ten area wineries consistently produce top-quality wines, mostly from locally grown or estate grapes. The area’s history of award-winning wine production dates back before prohibition, to 1872. The terroir and climate of the Lewis Clark Valley resemble the Burgundy and Bordeaux regions in France with Rhone, Bordeaux and Spanish varietals thriving here. It’s a wine region that’s free of hordes of visitors, and you’ll often meet the owners and winemakers in the tasting room. Say yes if they offer you a personal tour of the barrel room.
Fun Fact
Lewiston is the gateway to the USA’s deepest river gorge, Hells Canyon.
The Northwest Passage Scenic Byway follows 326 kilometers of the route that explorers Lewis and Clark took through north-central Idaho from Lewistown to the Montana border.
The Lewis Clark Valley wine region has a history of award-winning wine production dating to 1892.